Courses
Introduction to Orff Schulwerk
Level I – Orff Schulwerk Certification Program
Level II – Orff Schulwerk Certification Program
Level III – Orff Schulwerk Certification Program
GENERAL INFORMATION
Based on the ideas of Carl Orff and Gunild Keetman, Orff Schulwerk has taken root around the world, inspiring teachers globally. This child-centered approach to music and movement education encourages creativity and play, where the enjoyment of group music making, improvisation, and composition are the focus. Using speech, movement, singing, and child-accessible instruments Orff Schulwerk advocates teaching that relies on the creativity, imagination and musicianship of the teacher.
Orff Teacher Education is available through workshops, Introductory Courses, Level Courses, and Post Level III Courses. Understanding and implementing the Orff philosophy of creative education is a lifetime pursuit, requiring the experience of teaching children while taking the courses to understand and implement the ideas.
The BC Orff Chapter is committed to providing these opportunities for teachers.
ORFF SCHULWERK TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAM
The Introductory Course is highly recommended for everyone interested in an in-depth understanding of Orff Schulwerk. In the one-week program students are introduced to the Orff philosophy of music and movement, and experience many tools for implementing these ideas. Students will be able to take the inspiration from this course into their classroom, preparing them for the Certified Levels Courses. There is no prerequisite for this course although knowledge of music notation is helpful.
Certified Levels Courses are the primary way to receive in-depth training in Orff Schulwerk in Canada, following the guidelines of Carl Orff Canada. They are offered in two-week sessions during the summer, usually running from 8:30 – 5, Monday through Friday. Each Level includes 3 hours of Basic Orff instruction, 1 1/2 hours of Movement, 1 hour of Recorder and 1 hour of Special Topics daily. Please refer to categories under “Courses” for content specific to each Level.
Summer 2025 the Introductory Course will be offered through the BC Orff Chapter. While the Levels Courses will not be available this summer, check here for updates for 2026.